spice

• Liza Minelli and David Gest: $3.5 million
• Paul McCartney and Heather MIlls: $3 million
  
• Elizabeth Hurley and Arun Nayar: $2.5 million
• Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes: $2 million
• Elizabeth Taylor and Larry Fortensky: $2 million

If you're a pepper fan, you probably always had a little thing for those giant pepper mills that some restaurants equip their waitstaff with. This 10-inch Greek Pepper Mill may not quite have the size of those models, but it makes up for it in style. Made in Greece, the pepper mill is made of brass and is modeled after traditional brass coffee mills that were once hugely popular in that area of the Mediterranean. The mill's grinding mechanism cracks the peppercorns before crushing them, which exposes more surface area for a more consistent grind and releases more flavor. The grind is adjustable and the handle/lid are removable. Price: $80.

The Spiced Lady Ring, designed by Chao & Eero Jewel, is one of the most unusual juxtapositions of fashion and function that we've seen in a while. The elegantly shaped 1.35-in. high ring is crafted from sterling silver and is sleek and comfortable to wear. When not in use, the ring can be used as a small, free-standing sculpture, as its flat bottom allows it to remain upright unaided.

The unusual feature is that it is also a salt/seasoning shaker. A small rubber stopper on the underside of the ring allows it to be filled with salt or other seasonings, then shake them out as you cook or to add an extra zing to a restaurant meal. Know a cook with a birthday coming up? This could be the perfect gift. There is a picture of the ring being worn after the jump. Price: $345.

Spices are naturally colorful, so the temptation to put a spice rack out in plain sight can be strong. Unfortunately, the racks themselves are often cheap or simply ugly, not to mention that they don't take advantage of the decorating possibilities that spices offer. This One-line Spice Rack from DESU changes that, though. It is designed to display spices in a way that will flatter any kitchen with some empty wall space. It comes with 15 cubic, glass jars to hold the spices and has a space that fits a standard olive oil bottle - giving it a unique look and a degree of usefulness that almost no other spice rack offers. It is made of stainless steel and the mounting screws are hidden to make it appear to "float" on the wall. Price: $199.